21/07/2026
Marthoma Shleeha Perunnaal Celebrated with Great Devotion and Fellowship in Tamworth
Tamworth: The feast of Marthoma Shleeha (St. Thomas the Apostle) was celebrated with deep devotion, faith, and spiritual joy at St. Mary’s Church, Tamworth, under the auspices of St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church (STIOC), Tamworth, on 19th and 20th July 2026.
The blessed celebrations began on the evening of 19th July with the traditional Kodiyettu (Flag Hoisting) led by the Parish Vicar, Rev. Fr. Abey Mathew Tharakan. The evening continued with prayer services and other liturgical observances. Rev. Fr. Christopher, Vicar of the Tamworth Catholic Church, graced the occasion as the special guest and shared an inspiring devotional message, highlighting the importance of faith, unity, and Christian fellowship. The evening concluded with the solemn Rassa procession and other Perunnaal celebrations.
As part of the celebrations, the Sunday School presented “Kala Sandhya – An Evening of Faith, Music & Talent,” showcasing the talents of the children through various performances. Certificates and prizes were presented to students who achieved outstanding results in the Sunday School examinations. The evening was further enriched by a fellowship gathering organised by the Martha Mariam Vanitha Samajam (MMVS).
The celebrations continued on the morning of 20th July with the celebration of the Holy Qurbana, led by Rev. Fr. Anish Mathew, Vicar of St. George Orthodox Church, Brisbane, as the chief celebrant. Rev. Fr. Abey Mathew Tharakan, Parish Vicar, and Deacon Stephen Sabu served as co-celebrants. The faithful participated prayerfully in the Holy Qurbana and received Holy Communion.
Following the Holy Qurbana, Mr. Daniel Barsleebi, Member of the Asia Pacific Diocese Council, addressed the gathering with words of encouragement and blessings. The celebrations concluded with the offering of vows and a fellowship meal shared among the parish community.
The successful organisation of this year’s Perunnaal was made possible through the dedicated leadership of Secretary Mr. Jayesh Joy, Trustee Mr. Prince Philip, Managing Committee members, volunteers, and the wholehearted support and participation of all parishioners.
The Marthoma Shleeha Perunnaal 2026 will be remembered as a blessed occasion that strengthened faith, unity, and the bond of Christian fellowship within the Tamworth community. Through the intercession of St. Thomas the Apostle, may God continue to guide and bless our church family.
